In the United Kingdom, a significant advancement in military technology has been achieved with the successful testing of the DragonFire, a laser directed-energy weapon (LDEW) system. This system, notable for its high precision and cost-effectiveness, marks a notable step forward in the UK's defence capabilities. This technology, which can inflict damage at the speed of light and offers the possibility of significant cost savings over traditional ammunition, is seen as a potential game-changer in air defence. As per the official newsletter, the laser and its associated targeting systems, including an electro-optical camera and a second lower-power laser for imaging and tracking, are mounted to a turret. The Dragonfire reportedly uses a 50kW laser and is designed to defend land and marine targets from missiles and mortars. As the name suggests the DragonFire concentrates the high-power laser into the target, causing catastrophic damage due to the high energy. The system is precise enough to hit a £1 coin from a kilometer away.
Notably, DragonFire, which operates at less than £10 per shot, has demonstrated its proficiency in engaging aerial targets during trials at the MOD’s Hebrides Range. This innovative system, developed through a collaboration between the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), MBDA, Leonardo, and QinetiQ, showcases the potential for lasers in future combat scenarios. The LDEW system, which is part of a £100 million program initiated in 2017, has demonstrated remarkable accuracy in tracking both land and sea targets.
